FAQ

What is the difference between a music performance major and a music education major?

Music performance majors in Steinhardt receive "music conservatory" training as performers in preparation for careers in music performance. They are not required to take courses in music education, do not participate in student teaching, and are not certified to teach K-12.

Music Education majors in Steinhardt are expected to be outstanding musicians. Undergraduate music education majors have a "primary instrument" (instrument or voice), take private lessons throughout their four years, participate in ensembles, and present senior recitals on their primary instrument, very much like music performance majors. However, in addition to intense study in music, music education majors take a substantial number of "specialization" courses related to music education, including mentored student teaching assignments. Upon completion of the B.M. degree, Steinhardt music education majors are able to teach K-12 in most states in the U.S. Each state has its own teacher licensing exams and guidelines, which may require completion of a masters' degree within five years of completion of the bachelors degree.